Obstetrics Capstone Practice Exam

The first action in responding to a newborn's respiratory distress involves providing oxygen. In cases of respiratory distress, the newborn may not be receiving enough oxygen to their tissues due to inadequate respiratory function. Administering supplemental oxygen is crucial, as it addresses the immediate need to increase the oxygen saturation levels in the bloodstream, which is vital for the newborn's overall health and stability.

Initiating oxygen support is essential before further assessments or interventions can be effectively carried out, as hypoxia can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. While assessing the heart rate, administering medications, and positioning the newborn are all important components of a comprehensive approach to managing respiratory distress, they should follow the immediate provision of oxygen to ensure the newborn's vital oxygen levels are restored as quickly as possible.